Lucky escape after truck tangles in live power lines

File photo / APN

A farmer is planning to buy a Lotto ticket after his truck came into contact with live power lines while he prepared to tip a load of soil onto his property.

The man, who wants to remain anonymous, heard a loud bang and saw a flash behind him. Thinking his rear tyre had blown, he saw a small grass fire in his rear mirror which he put out by dumping the soil.

He jumped from his truck to check his tyre and, finding no problem, climbed back into the cab.

"It wasn't until I went to move the truck that I realised I was tangled in the lines, and called 111.

"I didn't even think I was anywhere near power lines - I certainly didn't think they would be low enough to hit.''

The fire was caused by a live wire arcing and Unison faultman Hadyn Reid said the farmer was extremely lucky to have survived the incident.

"By exiting his vehicle, he risked electrocution. If this incident had happened at another location, the outcome could have been fatal. He very likely would not have survived leaving his truck the first time, as the lines could still have been live.''

The farmer, who is planning to promote Unison's `Look Up' safety campaign about the dangers posed by wire, said he's feeling lucky to be alive.

"I kept thinking `I must go buy a Lotto ticket, but I didn't get a chance - hopefully my luck will hold for the next draw instead.''